Levelling the playing field

International Women’s Day

 

IWD-2-1920x1080

Progress happens together

Over the past three years, our International Women’s Day events have brought together inspiring voices from across sport, media, art, business and beyond. Each year building on the last to explore how we can drive change together.

From London to Manchester, every event has been shaped by a shared ambition: to create spaces where stories are heard, perspectives are shared and progress feels possible.

This year, we brought the event in Manchester – a pivotal city for women’s sport and the focus of our morning discussions. Speakers from the worlds of sport, art, media, coaching and business explored the challenges women face across industries, regardless of seniority or workplace, and discussed how we can all help level the playing field – on and off the pitch.

‘Inclusion in action’ became the theme for 2025, as we heard from an inspiring mix of voices spanning art, confidence coaching and women’s sport, exploring the power of visibility and self-belief.

At our first ever International Women’s Day event, we celebrated our colleagues and male allies at Frameless, alongside an incredible line up of speakers who shared personal stories, insights and perspectives on allyship and inclusion.

More than one day   

We work year-round to help level the playing field, working closely with the communities around us to amplify underrepresented voices and celebrate the unsung. 

Celebrating International Women’s Day has taken many forms over the years, but one thing that remains true: one day is never enough. Each year, we aim to go further, creating spaces for honest conversation, connection, inspiration and visibility. Because every time we do, we can open the door a little wider for someone else. 

Real change doesn’t happen alone. It happens when we move forward together – sharing stories, championing talent and creating opportunities that inspire the next generation.  

Women in Sport – Battersea Power Station

The Corinthians – The Screen @ Printworks, Manchester

The Female Lead, Piccadilly Lights

Mother Glasgow by Gerard Burns, Renfrew Road

Quotes from throughout the years

“My ambition soared. Not in spite of becoming a mother, but because of it.”

Nikki Sehgal, General Manager at Media for All

“Your opinion is as great and valid as everyone else’s, and failure is a sign you’re learning.”

 

Dr Monica Curran, Manchester Corinthians

“Be true to yourself and be happy in the skin that you’re in.”

Jennie Roper, Head of Intelligence, WPP Media

Women’s sport isn’t underperforming, it’s underinvested.”

Yvonne O’Malley, Head of Leisure, Events and Contracts at Manchester City Council

“Decide what you stand for, and stand for it 100% of the time.”

Clayton Christensen via Nicky Kemp, Editorial Director at Creativebrief

“Don’t worry about what has past, look forward and believe in what you are doing.”

Edwina Dunn OBE

“Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Not everything has a traditional path.”

Gayle Noah, Global Media Director, L’Oreal

footer-background-still

Ready to take your campaign to the next level?

Ocean Networks

The location is available as part of a network, please see below for details.

Please contact us on sales@oceanoutdoor.com to find out more.